New Zealand Embassy Tokyo, Japan

Christchurch earthquake

Christchurch is recovering well from the major earthquake on 4 September. New Zealand’s high levels of earthquake preparedness and strong infrastructure have seen essential services quickly restored to most of the affected area.

An area in central Christchurch is cordoned off and this cordon is reviewed daily. The remainder of Christchurch is accessible.

No other areas of New Zealand are affected by the earthquake.

Christchurch International Airport is operating as normal, as are most transport links, and 98% of tourism operators in Canterbury report they are open for business.

Tourist areas around Christchurch including Hanmer Springs, Akaroa, Kaikoura and the local ski fields are unaffected, as is much of the Canterbury region (which surrounds Christchurch).

Travellers who have bookings for travel to Christchurch and the Canterbury region over the next few weeks should contact their travel providers for the latest updates.

Those intending to transit through Christchurch to other regions will be unaffected.